The Atlanta Falcons have established a young core on the offensive side of the ball. Drake London, Bijan Robinson, and Michael Penix Jr. are all still playing on their rookie contracts. With the Falcons opting for a youth movement on offense, they now face a crucial decision regarding former starter Kirk Cousins.
Cousins has been involved in several trade discussions throughout the offseason, and while a move is expected, the nature of that move remains unclear. Trading Cousins isn’t the only option on the table. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the Steelers have shown at least some level of interest.
“I had some conversations with people this week that led me to believe that Cousins is at the very least on the Steelers’ radar, if something were [to] fall through on Rodgers,” Fowler reported.
Though Cousins is getting older, he told Sports Illustrated’s Daniel Flick that age isn’t something he’s focused on.
“I’ve gone back several years now, I’ve kind of always taken the approach of one year at a time because I know how much one year in this league can change the conversation,” Cousins said. “So, I just kind of go year-to-year, but sitting here after Year 13, I do still have a desire to play.”
CBS Sports’ Cody Benjamin doesn’t project a trade for Cousins, but suggests another possible outcome.
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“They can save $27.5 million by trading Cousins after June 1, whereas a pre-June 1 deal would’ve only netted them $2.5 million in instant savings. Outright cutting the veteran would also result in a net loss of $10 million after June 1, whereas a pre-June 1 release would’ve cost them $35 million. Prediction: Released by Falcons, then signs with Saints,” Benjamin wrote.
If Cousins were to join the Saints, it would likely stir further frustration among Falcons fans—especially after he played a major role in Atlanta losing their substantial division lead last season. The Saints need a proven QB, but no Falcon fan wants to see a former player to join New Orleans.
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